Position Statement

Frankston Safe Boating Refuge - Olivers Hill Boat Ramp

Updated: July 2018

Outline:

The Volunteer Coast Guard acknowledges the lack of a safe boat refuge and a base for search and rescue operations in Frankston, and the coastal area that VF1 protects. A movement to address this is underway and has the support of Frankston City Council, BIAV, VR Fish, TTTAF and the Water Police.

There is of great concern to Volunteer Coast Guard with regard to safety for those launching boats, as well as the lack of a base to store the rescue fleet. Other supporters, including BIAV share these concerns, as well as concerns around the negative impact on boating activity and demand.

Supporters of a safe boating refuge acknowledge the recent improvements to the actual boat ramp, however note its inadequacies, non-protection from most wind and tidal impacts, and its inefficiencies. And the resulting under-utilisation.

VFI has instigated a written, as well as an on-line petition, to gain further community and political support for the project. (Link below) VFI is also leading a committee, of which BIAV is a part, to further the project.

BIAV Position and Actions:

BIAV supports the call for the safe boating refuge and for government support for the project.

BIAV recognises in particular the safety aspects of the project, however also the boating, economic and lifestyle benefits that it will provide.

BIAV is disturbed by the current under-utilisation of the facility. Further, BIAV is alarmed by the response time for Volunteer Coast Guard call-outs, due to there being no on-site berthing for the rescue vessel/s.

BIAV supports the public petitions and will share it via its e-news, social media and website. BIAV also supported the written petition, with it being promoted at the recent Melbourne Boat Show.

BIAV congratulates VF1 at Frankston for their decades of service to the boating industry and community and currently for leading this vital project.